Your CV is the first impression recruiters have of you. So before you present this document to them, make sure it is a true reflection of your abilities. Gain the competitive edge you need with a resume that stands out from the crowd. Here are some quick, easy suggestions on how to fix your CV and turn into the perfect candidate.
How to fix Your CV
It’s important to note that a CV is a work in progress. A few small changes here and there could increase your chances of landing your dream job. There is always room for improvement. So stay ahead of the game with our top tips on how to fix your CV.
- Provide updated details
- Fix the format
- Adjust the style and layout
- Check for grammar and spelling mistakes
- Use keywords
- Edit the summary and objective
- Avoid a “one-size-fits-all” CV
- DON’T LIE
Provide Updated Details
Don’t make the mistake of sending your CV to a recruiter with outdated details. These include references, phone numbers, email addresses and LinkedIn profile links. If you cannot be reached on the contact details provided, they will choose another candidate to interview. Make sure to add these at the top of both your CV and cover letter so that it is easy to spot.
Fix the Format
Your CV needs to be easy to read. Use the same font and size throughout the document. Times New Roman, Arial and Calibri are the top choice for CV fonts. Keep your font sizes between 10 and 13. Anything smaller will be difficult to read, whereas anything bigger will seem unprofessional.
Adjust the Style and Layout
A CV is not an art project, so it shouldn’t look like one. Unless you’re applying for a creative job, avoid making use of colourful prints and images in your document. In addition to looking juvenile, using CV layouts with pictures and colourful borders take up a lot of space. This means that you won’t be able to add all the necessary information without making the page look cluttered.
Check for Grammar and Spelling Mistakes
You could be the perfect candidate with the right work experience and qualifications. But if there are spelling errors on your CV, it could make recruiters think twice about hiring you. To avoid these mistakes, make use of websites such as Grammarly or ask a friend to proofread for you.
Use Keywords
Companies get hundreds of CV’s every time they advertise a post. Make sure you stand out by using the correct keywords. These keywords not only show that you’ve done your research on the company, but also ensure that your CV doesn’t get lost in application tracking systems. These trackers filter CV’s based on how well they match the job description.
Edit the Summary and Objective
This section is not compulsory, but it’s a nice add if done correctly. An objective should only be used if you don’t have much experience or if you are changing careers. It is a 2-3 sentence summary of your skills and why you are perfect for the job. A summary, on the other hand, is where you mention relevant experience and special achievements.
Avoid a “one-size-fits-all” CV
Your CV should be specific to the post you are applying for. Employers value loyalty and want to see why you’d be a perfect fit to their organisation. Any CV that looks generic is likely to be thrown out. Pay attention to the skills and qualifications in the job application and make sure to highlight them. You can do this by providing specific examples to show why you are perfect for the job.
DON’T LIE
There is a big difference between highlighting your achievements and simply making them up. Lying on your CV is a very serious offence. Did you know, in South Africa, lying about your qualifications could land you in jail for up to five years? Your crime will also be recorded in SAQA’s registry. This is not worth it. The best route is to be your authentic self at all times and the right job will come your way.
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